DeSoto Parish Schools is gearing up to launch the 2025–2026 academic year with its third annual Back-to-School Blast Off, set for Friday, July 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the DeSoto Parish Schools Administration Building in Mansfield.
This highly anticipated event has quickly become a cornerstone of the district’s community engagement efforts, offering students and families an energetic and resource-rich way to kick off the school year.
A Launchpad for Student Success
The Back-to-School Blast Off provides families with vital information, supplies, and services to help ease the transition into a new academic year. Representatives from every DeSoto Parish school will be on hand to distribute back-to-school materials, answer questions, and help students feel ready and confident for their first day.
Event Highlights Include:
Free backpack giveaway (while supplies last)
Free sno-cones for the first 150 children, provided by Community Bank
Interactive booths hosted by local businesses and community organizations
Family-friendly activities and valuable resources for students of all grade levels
A Showcase of Community Partnership
The event also reflects the strength of community collaboration across DeSoto Parish. More than a dozen partners will be present, offering services and support ranging from health care and financial literacy to educational enrichment.
Participating organizations include:
Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana
Progressive National Bank
FUNdamental Pediatric Therapy
Mansfield and Stonewall branches of the DeSoto Parish Library
DeSoto Parish 4-H
Families Helping Families Region 7
DeSoto Regional Health System
JCampus/EDgear
The Arc Caddo-Bossier
BONVENU BANK, N.A.
Mansfield State Historic Site
DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office
Gratitude to Sponsors
DeSoto Parish Schools extend heartfelt thanks to the generous sponsors making this event possible: EIS Medclaims, First Choice Therapy, State Representative Larry Bagley, Sweet Kela’s, B & B A/C Service, Down Home Meats, Community Bank, Progressive National Bank, FUNdamental Pediatric Therapy, Stake Out Signs, and Bonvenu Bank.
Their support ensures that the Back-to-School Blast Off remains a free, accessible, and empowering experience for all families in the parish.
Join the Celebration
Families are encouraged to attend and take advantage of this fun-filled day dedicated to setting students up for a successful school year.
For more updates, visit the DeSoto Parish Schools website or follow them on social media using #TheDeSotoDifference.
Let the countdown to success begin!